The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

The Block

<html><body>
The five listings from this year’s season of The Block are now officially live.
Each of the five houses has an indicative selling price of between $3 million and $3.3 million, roughly four times as high as St Kilda’s median house price of $758,000.
Located in what was once the historic Oslo Hotel (pictured in title), each listing will be updated every week as new rooms are unveiled.
The formal lounge room, main bedroom, guest ensuite and main bathrooms appear on the listings for the 38A - E homes.
Situated at 38 Grey Street, the agencies marketing the homes are Wilson Port Phillip, Hocking Stuart Albert Park, McGrath St Kilda, The Agency Melbourne and Biggin and Scott Richmond.
All the homes are four bedroom homes and the number of bathroom ranges from three to five.
The <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/38a-grey-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2015420828" target="_blank">first team's listing</a>, Mitch and Mark's states, their formal lounge massive and their entertainment areas flexible.
It's arranged as a four bedroom four bathroom home.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/2/Block%202019%201.JPG" alt="">
The <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/38b-grey-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2015420829" target="_blank">second team</a>, Luke and Tess, was favoured by the judges for their bathroom.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/2/Block%202019%202.JPG" alt="">
The <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/38c-grey-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2015420839" target="_blank">third team</a>, Deb and Andy, has focussed on a design that is a combination of "Gold Rush heritage and luxury style".
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/2/Block%202019%203.JPG" alt="">
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/38d-grey-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2015420844" target="_blank">Team four</a>, El’ise and Matt, won the highest judges’ marks for their formal living room.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/2/Block%202019%204.JPG" alt="">
Jesse and Mel, <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/38e-grey-street-st-kilda-vic-3182-2015420847" target="_blank">team five</a>, are St Kilda locals who are utilising Jesse's experience as a real estate agent.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/2/Block%202019%205.JPG" alt="">
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

The Block Oslo 2019 homes officially listed for sale

<html><body>
Sydney's stylish grandads Mitch and Mark have been made bookmakers favourites after the first episode of The Block 2019 aired on Sunday.
The Potts Point locals, who flip properties for a living, have been priced in at $3 on Sportsbet.
Sportsbet.com.au's Rich Hummerston said judging by the amount of tears shed in the first episode, this year’s Blockheads have the task ahead of them.
"Mitch and Mark are experienced flippers, which should give them an edge."
The couple, who have flipped 15 properties across Sydney, are currently seeking a buyer for <a href="/news/the-block-oslos-mitch-and-mark-seek-north-bondi-buyer">one of their North Bondi projects.</a>
Second favourites are Melbourne representatives Jesse and Mel, who have eased from $3 to $4.
Jesse is a <a href="/expert-insights/building/the-agencys-jesse-raeburn-portrayed-as-cocky-contestant-on-skint-the-block-goldrush-series">real estate agent at The Agency</a> and sold The Gatwick apartment of Courtney and Hans last year.
Tess and Luke, the newlyweds from the Sunshine State, are priced at $4.50.  
Andy and Deb, the second representatives from New South Wales, are fourth favourites at $5 and the outsiders are experienced renovators from WA, El'ise and Matt.
Photo credit Channel Nine.
 
 
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Sydney grandads Mitch and Mark made bookies favourites after The Block 2019 first episode

<html><body>
Estate agent Jesse Raeburn had only just joined The Agency, Albert Park when he won a spot as a competitor on this year's The Block, the biggest Block ever.
He was a selling agent and auctioneer on The Block in 2018, where he <a href="https://aws.propertyobserver.com.au/forward-planning/advice-and-hot-topics/celebrity-property-news/91501-the-agency-secure-top-gatwick-price-per-sqm" target="_blank">successfully sold Courtney and Han’s apartment</a> to the former custodians of The Gatwick. 
He aspired to join after appearing last year and bought his apartment just down the street from the 1850s terrace house row.
Raeburn described his experience filming the show with his girlfriend Mel as "the best thing I have ever done in my life."
He says he's been obsessed by The Block since the initial series at Bondi Beach in 2003.
His initial bedroom renovation will feature a fabric wall plus large cornicing as the feature in the slightly contemporary renovation they propose.
"Being a real estate I have been into many of the homes in the area and that's what the buyers want," he said.
The opening episode showed him admonished several time times for not clearing dangerous debris during their initial demolition.
He was described as cocky, by foreman Keith Schleiger.
"He's being very cocky so far... he's an auctioneer...give me another few days he'll be like a fish out of water, he has no idea what he's doing" Schleiger said.
"If anyone has ever been set up to be the subject of mockery, it’s real estate agent Jesse," reported Domain, who are expected to spruik the show even more than ever since they are officially part of the Nine Network.
Raeburn did an apprenticeship in floor and wall tiling for a large commercial tiling contractor and once he finished he went out on my as a sole trader for a few years in Queensland. 
He worked for a project builder in Mackay where he would tile on average one house a week.
"That was where I really learnt the meaning of hard work. 
"When you work for yourself you have to be extremely self-motivated and also take pride in what you do a lot like real estate so I found the transition quite easy."
His Agency boss Peter Kakos says clients gravitate towards Jesse because his enthusiasm "and they know Jesse will achieve great results for them.”
“His infectious personality and engaging energy has attracted a loyal client base,” Kakos said.
Raeburn said he joined The Agency as he wanted to be a part of a national brand not restricted by post codes.
He started off in real estate in 2015.
He says there indicators of a more positive Melbourne property outlook for the coming period, "with two interest rate cuts, APRA announcing loosening of lending criteria, and a return to power for the incumbent government."
"Buyer sentiment is returning and auction clearance rates around the 70% mark are a good sign that the Melbourne market is again finding its feet.
"If you believe what makes media headlines the market is always in one of two states: crashing down, or racing up out of control and housing is unaffordable. 
"The reality is always somewhere in the middle, but the last twelve months have certainly shown a slower growth than the 5-7 years prior."
He says clients nowadays have a great bulldust detector and can see through flashy presentations and false claims. 
"Every client of mine is a client for life, because they know they can trust me." 
Estate agents were traditionally brought in to find a buyer for the Block properties once the teams had completed their renovations.
But in recent year's they emerged even earlier to assist the contestants on selecting styles that suited the locality.
Buyers agents have have even bigger roles, and <a href="/expert-insights/building/no-conflict-of-interest-over-judging-say-block-south-yarra-buyers-agents">in 2015 were facing conflict of interest suggestions</a> given their dual role.
The show’s 15th season premiered last night on Nine.
Doubts have been raised on the terrace's end appeal given severe cost cutting by the producers.
The contestants have only been given $250,000 to renovate their 460 sqm space, with terrace house with rear studio above garage.
It is just $30,000 more than the $220,000 budget allocated to each of the 230 sqm spaces in the Block's Gatwick. It has averaged 160 sqm throughout the entire series.
The Oslo will see $540 allocated per square metre. It was $950 per square metre.
"The $250,000 sounds like an enormous amount of money... however when you start to renovate an old building lots or labour lots or work - that money can go really quickly," contestant Mark said.
"We spend that much money on a two bedroom 90 sqm apartment," Mitch added. Their latest project <a href="/news/the-block-oslos-mitch-and-mark-seek-north-bondi-buyer">remains for sale at North Bondi. </a>
The couples have been asked to create a 30 square metre bedroom with an ensuite, touted as the “toughest first-week challenge ever.” 
The opening renovations were given an absurdly short period of time for completion as the producers amp up the stress to win ratings.  
"Hell on earth at the Oslo," is how it was described by a contestant trying to meet the cruel deadline in between Lite n' Easy meals.
It seems youfoodz, sponsors of The Block for two years, aren't going to be supplied in the onsite fridge.
Last night The Block failed to crack 1 million metro viewers with its first episode, instead drawing in 991,000, well down on its 2018 premiere of 1.163 million and 1.117 million metro viewers in 2017.
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The Agency's Jesse Raeburn portrayed as cocky contestant on skint The Block Goldrush series

<html><body>
The Block’s 2020 season, which will be shot in Melbourne’s bayside at Brighton, looks set to be a battle of the decades.
There will be five relocated homes, one from every decade between the 1920s and the 1960s (1940s above).
I’m guessing the contestant couples will then take their decorative themes from the era in modernising their home, which will also come with a rear two-storey extension.
Maybe the time-warp series will be something like Annabel Crabb’s Back in Time for Dinner on the ABC, but for the masses and sponsored by McCafe and Youfoodz.
The worthy sustainable recycling endeavour is similar to the show’s Elsternwick series two season’s ago when five weatherboard homes facing the wrecking ball were relocated under host Scott Cam’s watch.
This time they will be installed on a 2770 square metre holding being bought by Channel 9 for around $15 million.
It was once a nursing home which was bought for $5 million in 2013 by Nick Williams, the son of horse trainer, Lloyd Williams, after its closure.
The parcel was onsold by another developer who proposed 13 townhouses.
The next series of The Block starts next month with the refurbishment of the Oslo Hotel, St Kilda.
The producers quit Sydney in 2011 complaining that they couldn't cope with our councils.
This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph. 
</body></html>

The Block 2020 to be a battle of the decades

<html><body>
The Block is reported to be buying a vacant block of land in Melbourne's bayside Brighton for its 2020 season.
The 2770 square metre block is at 360-364 New Street, on the north-east corner of Orchard Street.
It once accommodated the Andrina Private Nursing Home.
According to the Sunday Herald Sun, the producers are seeking to subdivide the holding into five lots. The holding reportedly cost $15 million.
It is unknown whether they will try a new concept for the 202 season perhaps allowing for contestant couples to build from scratch.
When The Block producers acquired land in Elsternwick two seasons ago, they also subdivided the holding into five, and then relocated onto them, historic weatherboard homes from elsewhere in Melbourne and Victoria which were facing the wrecking ball.
The former Andrina Private Nursing Home was acquired as a residential development prospect for $5.3 million in 2013 by Nick Williams, the son of horse trainer, Lloyd Williams.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/17/BLOCK%202020-1.png" alt="">
More recently, the parcel was controlled by another developer proposing 13 townhouses known as One Orchard.
The Block producers have recently rebuilt the former Oslo Hotel in Grey Street, St Kilda, the subject of the 2019 series set, to air from August.
The aged care residence has been vacant since 2014. 
</body></html>

The Block 2020 whispered to be heading to demolished Brighton nursing home

<html><body>
The contestants for the 15th season of The Block have been announced.
They will be renovating St Kilda's former Oslo Hotel, the 150 year old building which a Channel Nine production company spent $10,815,000 on just a block away from The Gatwick, the building they renovated on last years show.
The Oslo, believed to be around double the size of The Gatwick, was originally five stately Victorian houses before it was converted into a hotel.
Courtesy on Channel Nine, here are The Block 2019 contestants.
Mitch and Mark, NSW  
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/4/Mitch%20%20Mark.jpg" alt="">
Source: Nine
Described as "stylish grandads", Mitch and Mark have 15 properties under their belt, however they're usually not the renovators themselves.
Mitch is a part-time house flipper and marketer and Mark is a trained psychologist.
They've been together for 14 years.
Andy and Deb, NSW
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/4/Andy%20%20Deb%20NSW.jpg" alt="">
 
Source: Nine
The second couple from New South Wales, Andy and Deb from Wallabi Point on the north coast.
Andy is a stand-up comedian and Deb runs homewares and fashion retailer The Shed Luxe.
They have a family of four and have renovated five properties together.
Tess and Luke, QLD
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/4/Tess%20%20Luke%20QLD.jpg" alt="">
Source: Nine
The young newlyweds from the Sunshine State have applied for The Block four times previously.
Tess works in sales and Luke is a tradie.
They have just finished their first renovation together.
Jesse and Mel, VIC
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/4/Jesse%20%20Mel%20VIC.jpg" alt="">
Source: Nine
The representatives from Melbourne are actually St Kilda locals Jesse, a real estate agent, and Mel, a contracts administrator.
Last year Jesse auctioned the apartment of Hans and Courtney.
He calls it one of his greatest achievements, securing a $410,000 profit.
El'ise and Matt, WA 
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/4/Elise%20%20Matt%20WA.jpg" alt="">
Representing Western Australia are husband and wife duo El'ise and Matt who are experienced renovators.
Matt owns a company that specialise in renovations and the couple have completed their own projects.
They have three kids under three and reached the final stage of auditions last year.
 
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

The Block St Kilda Goldrush 2019 teams revealed

<html><body>
The Block contestants, Kerrie Charter and Spence Thomson, have listed in the Barossa Valley. 
Colliers International are selling the 42-acre lifestyle property.
It is located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-sa-nuriootpa-700018218" target="_blank">191 Samuel Road</a>, half way between Nuriootpa and Tanunda.
The property backs onto Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop.
It is a stone’s throw from the likes of Penfolds, Seppeltsfield, Greenock Creek, Whistler Wines, Rolf Binder and Hewitson. 
Charter and Thomson bought the property three-and-a-half years ago, but only moved in two years ago after spending the first 18 months residing in Melbourne. 
The couple are selling their Samuel Road home to start their next project – building a new home of their own in South Australia. 
The expansive residence comprises the main home plus two private accommodation suites and gardens.
Previously utilised as ‘The Paddocks’ bed and breakfast, it presents an incoming purchaser a fantastic opportunity to redevelop completely, renovate or resume the bed &amp; breakfast business. 
Investors, developers, wine industry participants and speculators looking to capitalise on the obvious wine tourism potential are anticipated. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/2/26/C%20Large.jpg" alt=""> 
The main residence features two bedrooms, an open plan kitchen living and dining area with views to the vineyards in the east, plus separate bathroom and laundry.
Both suites feature kitchenettes and ensuite bathrooms with private garden outlooks, and there is an underground cellar. 
The land lends itself planting with Shiraz vines. 
Offers are due on 191 Samuel Road by March 13.
</body></html>

The Block’s Kerrie and Spence to sell Barossa Valley home

<html><body>
Brad Cranfield and Lara Welham, the winners of the hit renovation show The Block in 2012, have listed the impressive Hunter Valley home they built.
The couple are now based in Byron Bay.
Cranfield and Welham bought the 25 hectare estate in 2012, having won The Block when their Dorcas Street, South Melbourne renovation fetched $1.62 million, some $506,000 over reserve.
They poured their $606,000 prize earnings into ­<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-nsw-bishops+bridge-129781238" target="_blank">Bishop Bridge</a>, set between Cessnock and Maitland.
They paid $510,000 for the vacant land which had initially sought $640,000 when listed two years prior.
The designer home, that sits at the end of a long drive, comes with six metre high ceilings.
Its living room has a timber feature wall backing the Lop Cape Cod wood burning fire.
An upstairs loft style rumpus room overlooks the living space.
Coloured cathedral glass panes have been utilised throughout the four bedroom home.
A timber tiered deck looks across the grounds that has a creek running through the property, as well as three dams, one with a floating pontoon.
David Haggarty First ­National Maitland agents Michael Haggarty and ­Andrew Lange, who are marketing the home, ­recently reduced the asking price to $1,495,000 from its initial $1,599,000 guidance.
The couple had a baby boy, Jimmy, last August, a younger brother to son, Harry who was born in 2016.
Cranfield, was a fitter and machinist in the coal mining industry, while Welham was a physical education teacher before the 2012 series.
They beat Dan Reilly and Dani Wales; brothers Mike and Andrew Jones and then newlyweds Sophie and Dale Vine.
Cranfield is now an estate agent, saying the transition was a “natural progression”.
He works alongside Christian Sergiacomi, the husband of The Block’s busy interior designer Shel­ley Craft.
This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph. 
</body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

The Block winners Brad and Lara list Hunter Valley home 

<html><body>
The first house renovated by The Block winners Kyal and Kara Demmrich after they left the show has been sold again.
Kyal and Kara sold the Killarney Vale home in 2015 for $735,000, having transformed the 1970s home after paying $285,000 in 2008.
It was listed last August and sold recently exceeding its price guide of $970,000 to sell at $$1,050,000.
Now a contemporary family entertainer, the home has four bedrooms, a study, and a designer kitchen.
A mezzanine level features more living space, and a covered entertaining deck opens to the rear garden.
The home is going to auction with a $970,000 guide.
The couple sold to buy their current home, a four bedroom property at Toowoon Bay.
Late last year they offloaded their Long Jetty renovation that they had been documenting room by room on their joint Instagram account.
They pocketed $1.59 million, over double the $710,000 they paid just 11 months earlier.
They retain another renovation project, a Bateau Bay renovation.
After paying $580,000 four years ago, the couple undertook small scale renovation on the old fibro cottage.
There were no structural changes, just a modern facelift.
After ripping out the old tired carpets, there's rustic timber flooring throughout the home that sits on a 640 square metre parcel a stones throw from the beach.
They recently sought $460 a week. They were asking $395 before the renovation.
</body></html>

Killarney Vale home renovated by The Block's Kyal and Kara Demmrich sold again

<html><body>
Both of The Block Gatwick penthouses have been listed for rent.
They were both bought by the same person, Melbourne construction digital entrepreneur Rob Phillpot, at the live auction in late October.
He spent $2,859,000 on the penthouse renovated by Brisbane couple, radio presenter Jess and her husband Norm, then followed up the purchase buying the adjoining apartment of the netball duo Bianca and Carla for $2,991,000.
Phillpot, who only inspected the apartments two days before the auction, has now listed the penthouses for short-term stays.
Despite spending less on their apartment, Phillpot is asking $681 a night for Jess and Norm's apartment (above), more than the $623 a night for Bianca and Carla's (below).
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/18/bianc1.jpg" alt="">
There have been 170 views of the property in the past week on the <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/VacationRentalReview-g255360-d15663928-Doesn_t_get_better_than_this_The_BLOCK_Penthouse-St_Kilda_Port_Phillip_Greater_Melbou" target="_blank">TripAdvisor listing</a>, however there are yet to be any reviews.
It advises that pets and smoking aren't allowed. 
<div class="in-content-ad">
Despite holding the best positions in the building, Bianca and Carla finished fourth in the competition, taking home $301,000 in prize money.
Jess and Norm finished last with only $209,000 of prize money, nearly a third less than winners Hayden and Sara's $645,000 total winnings.
Phillpot, the co-founder of Aconex, didn't watch a single episode of the show. 
 
</div>
<div class="in-content-ad"> </div>
 
</body></html>

The Block

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The Block

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News